Castle Howard - A Special Day Out Worth Every Penny

Our two roving theatre correspondents took time out to sample the new picnic experience at the iconic Castle Howard. Here's what they thought...

This was a truly special day out; whether you are a solo visitor, as a couple or with friends and family, there is something for everyone at Castle Howard. We were blessed with beautiful Spring weather but we can imagine that a visit here in any kind of weather would be just as special and atmospheric.

We were lucky enough to have a ticket for the House & Gardens plus a Yorkshire Picnic Box. Heading straight for the house, we were greeted with a warm welcome from one of the many volunteers who gave a us a short history of the house. Wandering through at our own pace, there were many friendly and knowledgeable guides along the way, telling us interesting facts and anecdotes.



If you prefer, there is an audio tour to download on your phone. The house itself is beautiful kept, many parts of it lovingly restored after a major fire in 1940. There was so much to see, plenty of information boards en-route and the most spectacular views from the vast windows.

The temporary Coronation exhibition was very interesting and a highlight for us. Castle Howard really is a stately home of epic proportions which includes an awe-inspiring Great Hall and a serene chapel. The self-guided tour is well organised and slick and there was never a feeling of being overcrowded.

Leaving the house, we wandered around the extensive grounds, not overly manicured and much of it looking very natural. There is a peaceful lake where we took a half hour boat ride (£5 per adult); a very friendly ‘captain’ sailed us onto the water to see an abundance of wildlife and stunning views of the house. There is a woodland walk, a huge adventure playground for children, fountains, a reservoir and a walled garden (complete with peacocks!); so much to explore and do. Toilets and cafes were never far away which was a bonus!

We stopped for lunch by the lake and what a surprise we got when we opened our Yorkshire Picnic box! It was fit for an Earl for sure! There was crusty bread, cheeses, chutney, a selection of cold meats, pork pies, a box of macaroons, mini lemon drizzle cakes and bottles of sparkling juice. All local produce and beautifully packaged; a real treat!



For those who need assistance or have tired legs, a little train constantly travels around the grounds, taking guests to their next stop. The gift shop is full of tasteful merchandise including William Morris items, the artist whose intricate work is seen throughout the house. There is a popular farm shop too to which is hard to resist.

Castle Howard is not a cheap day out by all means but we think it is worth every penny. We could easily have spent an entire day there, enjoying the beautiful Yorkshire house and gardens, steeped in history and with something new and exciting around every corner.